Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurse (CRRN) Practice Exam

Which intervention is essential for a patient diagnosed with constipation?

1. Increasing dietary fiber intake

2. Encouraging bed rest

3. Administering enemas

4. Providing laxatives for immediate relief

The correct answer is: Increasing dietary fiber intake

Increasing dietary fiber intake is essential for a patient diagnosed with constipation because fiber plays a crucial role in promoting bowel regularity and enhancing stool consistency. A high-fiber diet can help absorb water in the intestines, making the stool bulkier and easier to pass. It encourages healthy peristalsis, which is the wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract. Including sources of dietary fiber such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes can lead to improved gastrointestinal motility and prevent further episodes of constipation. While methods such as bed rest, administering enemas, and providing laxatives can offer temporary solutions or relief in certain situations, they do not address the underlying issue of inadequate fiber intake, which is a significant factor contributing to long-term bowel health. Managing constipation effectively involves adopting lifestyle changes, including increasing fiber consumption, to facilitate more regular bowel movement and prevent recurrence.